THE CONNECTION BETWEEN NATURE AND WELLBEING
The last thing you want to do when you’re feeling down is go outside. You want to curl up in your bed and hide. Who could blame you? The world seems scary, especially when you’re having a rough time.
But getting outside and spending time in nature can do you a world of good.
A walk through a garden, for example, can reduce anxiety, lift your spirits and improve your mood.
Even just looking at pictures of natural scenes can change the way you feel.
Spending time in nature while talking to a counsellor can be incredibly healing.
That’s why Ecotherapy is becoming so popular.
MY APPROACH
I offer two nature-based therapies – Walk & Talk and Therapy in the Park.
THERAPY IN THE PARK
Feeling apprehensive about seeing a counsellor for the first time? Uncomfortable in an office setting?
Therapy in the Park may be more appealing to you.
Instead of having our counselling session inside, we go to the park.
Being surrounded by the sounds and colours of nature can have a calming effect on your mood. You're able to disconnect from your life and connect with nature instead. Therapy in the Park is meditative and grounding.
Noticing how the body responds to nature is a great practice in mindfulness too.
We'll decide on a private and comfortable space in the park and have our session there.
WALK & TALK THERAPY
We talk while walking through a park. Walk & Talk Therapy offers all the benefits of exercise, as well as those of ecotherapy.
This is particularly suitable for people who may feel uncomfortable sitting across someone in a counselling room.
Find more about Walk & Talk Therapy here.
Before we begin your ecotherapy session, we have an initial session indoors to find out which therapy style will suit you.
Are you interested in the healing aspects of ecotherapy?
I offer a 30-minute phone chat so you can get a feel for my approach.
WHAT IS ECOTHERAPY?
Ecotherapy is based on the belief that our connection to nature has a profound effect on our wellbeing.
An ecotherapist helps you engage with nature through activity and interaction so you’re able to get the benefits of nature in a meaningful way.
Different types of ecotherapy include:
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Nature meditation - meditating in nature, including reflecting on different elements of nature.
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Horticultural and conservation therapy - spending time with trees and flowers, gardening or taking care of land.
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Animal-based therapy - spending time with animals.
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Exercise in nature - physical exercise in nature e.g. walking, jogging, cycling, swimming.
HOW DOES IT HELP?
Whoever you are and whatever you’re going through, getting outside and clearing your head improves your mood and reduces stress. You’re also getting the benefits of talk-based therapy at the same time.
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Improves self-esteem
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Increases mental clarity
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Releases endorphins and lifts mood
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Reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression
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Helps physical recovery
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Lowers blood pressure
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Increases feeling of calmness
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Helps alleviate loneliness.